4.4
(5639)
29,555
hikers
980
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Fondatie Van Boudelo traverse a diverse and tranquil natural environment, recognized as one of the most valuable natural areas in the Waasland region. The landscape features extensive forests, hay meadows, moist grasslands, numerous ditches, and natural pools. Hikers will find picturesque field paths, rows of gnarled pollard willows, and elegant poplars. The historic Stekense Vaart canal forms the northern boundary, offering unpaved footpaths and a paved "quiet path" along its banks.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
4.5
(22)
86
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.8
(4)
32
hikers
4.18km
01:03
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(3)
30
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
24
hikers
5.44km
01:22
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
21
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The wooden arch bridge over the Stekense Vaart, named after Frans Coppens, was receiver-clerk in the municipality of Sinaai for almost a quarter of a century. He played an important role in "de Groote Watering van Sinay", the name given to the project launched by the Boerenbond in 1926. This project was initiated after repeated floods and aimed to make the polders 'dry'. The construction of the pumping station near Hondsnest was one of the first achievements within this project. During the Second World War, the unemployed were employed to clean or widen ditches. Under the impetus of dike reeve Jozef "meester" Maes and... receiver-clerk Frans Coppens (!), major reclamation works were carried out in the 60s, continuing into the following decades. Thus, Hondsnest got a new pumping station in 1975. In the meantime, the watering area had been converted into a polder, pursuant to the polder law of June 3, 1957. source: info file "Polder Daknam-Sinaai"
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Between the Stekense Vaart and the Heimeersstraat in Stekene lies the nature reserve Heimeersen. The Heimeersen was part of a large inland lake thousands of years ago.
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The pumping station at the Frans Coppens Bridge serves to pump excess water from the lower surrounding area into the canal.
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It is well worth stopping on top of the bridge. The view from the Stekense Vaart looks like a landscape painting. The bridge is named after honorary citizen Frans Coppens from Klein-Sinaai. As receiver-clerk he made a great contribution in his career. The canal used to be an important connection between the Dutch Hulst and Ghent.
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The rest area is located in the quiet area on the border with Stekene, at a junction of cycling and walking routes. Seven benches, a picnic table, and seven Reynaert statues are now available. Seven Reynaert benches were installed, each featuring quotes from the epic poem. The benches were created by Van Dal woodworking company. The seven statues are by Gino Geeraerd, whose studio is located nearby.
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The Nieuwstraatje in Stekene is a short, off-road piece that gives a surprising twist to your route. This path, surrounded by greenery, feels adventurous and offers a nice, natural transition between the wider roads. Ideal as a small but spicy snack during your trip through East Flanders!
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Nice, narrow bridge, but watch out for other people on the road.
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Rest on the newly installed benches and enjoy the silence and the view.
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Fondatie Van Boudelo offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 620 routes suitable for all skill levels. The entire region features nearly 1000 hiking tours in total.
Easy hikes in Fondatie Van Boudelo traverse a diverse and tranquil landscape. You'll find extensive forests, hay meadows, moist grasslands, and natural pools. The area is also characterized by picturesque field paths, gnarled pollard willows, elegant poplars, and the historic Stekense Vaart canal.
Yes, many easy routes in Fondatie Van Boudelo are circular. For example, the Frans Coppens Bridge – Pond loop from Fondatie van Boudelo is a popular 6.1 km circular trail, and the Stekense Canal – Stiltepad Gravel Path loop from Fondatie van Boudelo offers a 4.8 km loop along the canal.
Along the easy hiking trails, you can discover several interesting features. The Frans Coppens Bridge offers picturesque views of the Stekense Vaart. You can also find the Reynaert Sculptures and Benches at the Vaart, providing peaceful resting spots. For panoramic views, visit the Observation Tower in Benfeld Nature Reserve.
Yes, Fondatie Van Boudelo is an excellent destination for family-friendly hikes. The easy trails, diverse natural environment, and points of interest like the observation tower and Reynaert sculptures make it engaging for all ages. The paved 'quiet path' along the Stekense Vaart is particularly suitable for families.
Fondatie Van Boudelo is generally dog-friendly, offering many paths suitable for walks with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas, to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 5300 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the tranquil natural environment, the diverse ecosystems, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable and accessible walks.
Yes, the historic Stekense Vaart canal forms the northern boundary of the reserve and offers beautiful vistas. The Stekense Canal – Stiltepad Gravel Path loop from Fondatie van Boudelo is an easy 4.8 km trail that leads directly through the quiet area along the canal, providing excellent views.
The duration of easy hikes varies, but many popular routes can be completed in about 1 to 1.5 hours. For instance, the Frans Coppens Bridge loop from Fondatie van Boudelo is a 4.2 km path that typically takes just over an hour.
Fondatie Van Boudelo boasts a rich biodiversity. Hikers may spot rare birds like the buzzard, woodcock, black woodpecker, and honey buzzard. The area is also a haven for dragonflies, with 28 different species observed, and mammals such as the pine marten and deer can sometimes be seen.
Absolutely. The trails in Fondatie Van Boudelo are designed to showcase its varied natural features. Routes often lead through wet grasslands, coppice forests, and mixed deciduous forests, allowing you to experience the full range of ecosystems within the reserve. The Pond – Stekense Canal loop from Fondatie van Boudelo is a good example, combining water features with forested sections.
Yes, there is an 8-meter high Observation Tower in Benfeld Nature Reserve located along the Liniedreef. It provides panoramic views over the entire nature reserve and is equipped with a free telescope for observing the surrounding nature.


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